Contra-indications for MassageA contraindication is any condition or ailment that could get worse with some treatments. Contraindications are unique to each client and to each region of the body.It is vital that the massage therapist understands their Duty of Care and knows when it is unwise to massage. The following are contraindications for massage.

Where danger of haemorrhaging is present, massage increases the bleeding process.

Haematoma (bruising) could impede healing process and increase pain.

Phlebitis (inflamed blood vessels) these are inflamed and painful, do not touch.

DVT Deep Vein Thrombosis (blood clot). There is great risk of triggering off a thrombus (blood clot) on a deep vein by placing undue pressure on already weak vein walls.

Where severe pain or inflammation is present in joints, bone or muscle tissue. Massage could exacerbate the problem.

Fever, infection or when client feels physically ill. The immune system is already under attack and is working to overcome the virus or infection. Massage would put increased pressure on the immune system by spreading the infection more rapidly around the body, thus possibly making the client feel much worse quite quickly.

Inflammatory processes such as poisonous foci, e.g. insect bites or pus build up. The body needs time to fight such infections; massage could spread the infection to other sites within the body.

Recent injuries (48 - 72 hours). Any internal bleeding can take this long to stop; massage too soon could impede the healing process.

Recent operations. The body needs time to heal naturally before it is appropriate to massage.

Open wounds, burns, cuts. Obviously these would be too painful to touch, as well as the high risk of infection, to both you and the client.